OBD-II Interface

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Message

quirkycarsJunior

Number of posts : 30Age : 52Registration date : 2010-07-30

Subject: OBD-II Interface Mon Oct 22, 2012 4:45 pm

Being a bit of a geek (understatement), I quite fancy getting an OBD-II interface and attaching it to a cheapo laptop (I have a box of bits that would probably make 2-3 working EEE Pcs if I could be pestered).

But it's a minefield! There appear to be at least THREE different hardware (wiring pin-outs) configurations, and no-one appears to be sure what I need to get into my (w)2000 Punto..

I want access to everything. SRS, ABS, the lot. Not just turn off the MIL indicator (it isn't on anyway).

So far, I've investigated ELM327, VAG wossname, Multiecuscan (Fiatecuscan), and OBDKEY.Only OBDkey does it all, but it COSTS.

Anyone have any advice on this?

Last edited by quirkycars on Tue Oct 23, 2012 12:57 pm; edited 1 time in total

quirkycarsJunior

Number of posts : 30Age : 52Registration date : 2010-07-30

Subject: Re: OBD-II Interface Tue Oct 23, 2012 9:30 am

I forgot to add "canbus" to the list.Apparently, all modern cars use canbus.Unfortunately, my 2000 Punto doesn't. It uses (I think) an ISO protocol.My (admittedly sparse) research suggests that I'll need an OBD interface (VAG or possibly ELM), and THREE different interface leads to connect to the various systems. OR I can just pay the money and buy the OBDkey..

I want to be able to connect to ANY car, and access ALL systems. (yes I know - control freak, get over it.)

When I ask the suppliers, I get "this will work with all European cars after 2001/2, and all American cars from 1996". What about my bloody 2000 Punto? - Err.. dunno, guv.

redlorryJunior

Number of posts : 15Location : GlasgowRegistration date : 2011-04-24

Subject: Re: OBD-II Interface Wed Jan 30, 2013 12:33 pm

Have you tried the Torque app? I use it on my android phone, connected to the OBD-II port using a bluetooth adapter.

I mainly use it as a trip computer, but I understand that the paid version may allow you access to fault codes and enable you to clear some?

keithyboyJunior

Number of posts : 33Location : BoltonRegistration date : 2013-02-02

Subject: Re: OBD-II Interface Mon Feb 04, 2013 8:24 am

I use torque with a bluetooth adaptor. The adaptor was £10 from ebay and I'm using the free version of the app.

Generic OBD readers that cover all protocols are widely available via ebay for £50 or less. Specific vehicles of require software packages only available to dealers (Land Rover - Test Book, VW/Audi - VAGcom etc) to reach the higher level programming functions - which is just as well as without correct training and understanding of vehicular control systems massive amounts of damage can be done. For general servicing work and code re-setting a generic code reader will do all you need.

edlithgowSuper user

Number of posts : 433Registration date : 2010-06-01

Subject: Re: OBD-II Interface Wed Dec 07, 2016 12:52 pm

Lots of advice here on diagnostic kit and all sorts of other stuff as well:-